Singkil Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Singkil, Aceh, Indonesia, including natural attractions, cultural and historical places, food and drink scenes, where to stay, transportation, local customs, safety, and health.


Introduction to Singkil

Singkil is a small, vibrant town nestled in northern Aceh, on the western tip of Sumatra Island, Indonesia. The town sits on a narrow strip of land, sandwiched between the Indian Ocean and rocky, jungle-clad hills. Singkil is a melting pot of cultures - combining coastal and highland traditions to create a unique blend of customs and cuisines. The town’s relaxed atmosphere, stunning natural scenery, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-track experience in Southeast Asia.

List of Places to Visit in Singkil

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Singkil has a rich history, and there are many cultural and historical places to visit when you’re in town. Some of the highlights include:

  • The Singkil Sultan’s Palace: This is the former residence of the Singkil Sultan, who ruled over the town and surrounding areas for centuries. The palace is beautifully decorated and well-maintained, with ornate wooden carvings and colorful murals.
  • The Singkil Central Mosque: This is the largest and most important mosque in Singkil. The mosque is a beautiful example of traditional Islamic architecture, with a large dome, minaret, and intricate tilework.
  • The Singkil Museum: The museum is located in a renovated Dutch colonial building, and it showcases the history and culture of Singkil. The museum has a fascinating collection of artifacts, including traditional clothing, weapons, and crafts.
  • The Singkil War Cemetery: The cemetery is a sobering reminder of Singkil’s role in World War II. The cemetery contains the graves of Commonwealth soldiers who died in the area during the war.

Natural Attractions of Singkil: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Singkil is surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Indonesia. There are many outdoor adventures and scenic views to explore, including:

  • Gunung Leuser National Park: This is one of the largest national parks in Indonesia and home to a stunning array of wildlife, including orangutans, tigers, and elephants. The park is also home to some of the oldest and most pristine rainforests in the world.
  • The Singkil Mangrove Forest: This is a vast, pristine mangrove forest that is home to a variety of bird and marine life. Visitors can take a boat tour through the mangroves and spot exotic species such as kingfishers, hornbills, and sea eagles.
  • The Singkil Bay Beach: This is a long, wide beach with pristine white sand and clear turquoise water. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
  • The Singkil River: This is a scenic river that winds through the jungle-clad hills surrounding the town. Visitors can take a boat tour up the river and marvel at the stunning natural scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Singkil

For travelers who love hiking and biking, Singkil is an excellent destination. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area include:

  • The Gunung Leuser National Park: The park has a network of hiking trails that wind through some of the oldest rainforests in the world.
  • The Singkil Mangrove Forest: The mangrove forest is a great place to explore on foot or by bike. There are many trails that meander through the forest, and visitors can spot exotic wildlife along the way.
  • The Singkil Bay Beach: The beach is perfect for strolling, jogging, or biking along the long stretch of sand.

Best Things to Do in Singkil: Activities and Tours

Singkil offers a wide array of activities and tours to suit all interests and budgets. Some of the best things to do in Singkil include:

  • Take a boat tour of the Singkil Mangrove Forest: This is a great way to explore the mangroves and spot exotic wildlife such as kingfishers, hornbills, and sea eagles.
  • Visit the Singkil Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Singkil at this well-maintained museum.
  • Take a jungle trek in the Gunung Leuser National Park: The park has a network of hiking trails that wind through some of the oldest rainforests in the world.
  • Go swimming and sunbathing at the Singkil Bay Beach: This is a long, wide beach with pristine white sand and clear turquoise water.
  • Explore the local markets: Singkil has a vibrant and colorful market scene, selling everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Singkil

Day 1: Visit the Singkil Sultan’s Palace and Central Mosque. Day 2: Explore the Singkil Museum. Day 3: Take a boat tour of the Singkil Mangrove Forest. Day 4: Go hiking in the Gunung Leuser National Park. Day 5: Relax on the Singkil Bay Beach. Day 6: Visit the local markets and shop for souvenirs. Day 7: Depart Singkil and travel to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Singkil

Must-Try Dishes

Singkil is famous for its delicious and unique cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in the area include:

  • Lamun Oe: This is a traditional Singkil dish made from fish cooked in a rich, spicy sauce.
  • Meudeh Aceh: This is a hearty soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices.
  • Nasi Goreng Aceh: This is a spicy version of the popular Indonesian dish, fried rice.
  • Sambal Tumis: This is a spicy sauce made from chilies, onions, and tomatoes.

Local Beverages

Singkil is also home to a variety of refreshing local beverages. Some of the best include:

  • Kopi Aceh: This is a strong, sweet coffee brewed with spices and served with condensed milk.
  • Teh Tarik: This is a popular Indonesian tea that is sweetened and served with condensed milk.
  • Air Kelapa Muda: This is a refreshing coconut water drink, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Singkil: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Singkil has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Singkil include:

  • Hotel Pangeran Beach: This hotel is located on Singkil Bay Beach and offers comfortable, well-appointed rooms with stunning sea views.
  • Mutiara Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in the heart of Singkil town and offers charming, affordable rooms with traditional decor.
  • Aceh House Homestay: This homestay is run by a local family and offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Singkil culture and hospitality.

What to Buy in Singkil: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Singkil is known for its colorful and unique handicrafts, and there are many souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the best things to buy in Singkil include:

  • Handwoven Textiles: Singkil is famous for its beautiful textiles, which are made by skilled local weavers using traditional techniques.
  • Carved Wooden Souvenirs: Singkil is also known for its intricate wooden carvings, which are made by talented local craftsmen.
  • Batik Clothing: Batik is a traditional Indonesian fabric that is famous for its intricate patterns and color schemes.

Local Culture and Customs of Singkil

Singkil is a melting pot of cultures, and visitors should take the time to learn about the local customs and traditions. Some of the most interesting aspects of Singkil’s culture and customs include:

  • The Singkil Dance: This is a traditional dance that originates from the highlands surrounding Singkil. The dance involves graceful movements and colorful costumes and is performed on special occasions.
  • The Singkil Sultanate: The Singkil Sultanate is an important part of Singkil’s history and culture. The Sultanate ruled over the town and surrounding areas for centuries and is still revered by locals today.
  • The Blend of Cultures: Singkil is a unique blend of coastal and highland cultures. Visitors can see this blend in the town’s architecture, cuisine, and customs.

Best Time to Visit Singkil

The best time to visit Singkil depends on your preferences and travel plans. Generally, the best time to visit Singkil is between June and September, when the weather is dry and sunny. The town also hosts several festivals and events during this time, including the Independence Day Celebrations and the Singkil Cultural Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Singkil

Do:

  • Respect Local Customs: Singkil has a rich and unique culture, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the Local Cuisine: Singkil is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, so be sure to try as many local dishes as you can.
  • Explore the Natural Scenery: Singkil is surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Indonesia, so be sure to explore as much as possible.

Don’t:

  • Wear Revealing Clothing: Singkil is a conservative town, and visitors should dress modestly out of respect for local customs and traditions.
  • Take Photos Without Permission: Singkil is a small town, and locals value their privacy. Visitors should always ask permission before taking photos of people or private property.
  • Litter: Singkil is a beautiful place, and visitors should do their part to keep it clean and litter-free.

Safety and Health

Safety in Singkil

Singkil is a safe and welcoming town, but visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling in Indonesia. Some tips for staying safe in Singkil include:

  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Singkil is a small town, but visitors should still be aware of their surroundings and keep an eye on their valuables.
  • Avoid Traveling Alone at Night: Singkil is generally safe, but it’s still a good idea to avoid traveling alone at night.
  • Take Care When Swimming: The sea at Singkil Bay Beach can be quite rough and has strong currents. Visitors should take care when swimming and always swim within sight of other people.

Health in Singkil

Singkil is a rural town, and visitors should take the usual precautions when it comes to health and hygiene. Some tips for staying healthy in Singkil include:

  • Drink Bottled Water: Singkil’s tap water is not potable, so visitors should always drink bottled water.
  • Use Insect Repellent: Singkil is in a tropical climate, and visitors should use insect repellent to protect themselves from mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.
  • Bring Your Own Medications: Singkil is a small town, and it may be difficult to find specific medications or medical supplies.

Getting to Singkil: Transportation Options and Logistics

Singkil is off the beaten track, but it’s still relatively easy to get to. The easiest way to reach Singkil is by flying into Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, and then taking a bus or taxi to Singkil.

Airports Near Singkil

The nearest airport to Singkil is the Silangit International Airport, which is located in Siborong-Borong, North Sumatra. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to Singkil.

Bus Stations Near Singkil

Singkil has a small bus station that serves buses traveling to and from Medan. Visitors can also take minibusses or shared taxis to reach Singkil from nearby towns.

Other Options

Some intrepid travelers may opt to reach Singkil via boat from nearby islands or towns. However, this is not recommended for inexperienced travelers, as the sea can be quite rough and unpredictable.

How to Get Around in Singkil

Singkil is a small town, and most attractions are within easy walking distance. Visitors can also rent motorbikes or bicycles to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Singkil: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Singkil is surrounded by stunning natural scenery and interesting cultural destinations. Some of the best nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • The Banyak Islands: These remote islands are known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Lake Toba: This stunning lake is located in the heart of Sumatra and is the largest volcanic lake in the world.
  • The Aceh Tsunami Museum: Located in nearby Banda Aceh, this museum tells the story of the devastating tsunami that struck the area in 2004.

Conclusion

Singkil is a gem of a town, off the beaten track and full of rich history, culture, and stunning natural scenery. Visitors to Singkil will love exploring the town’s museums, discovering its unique cuisine, and exploring the beautiful jungles and mangroves that surround it.